Maintaining Timber Cladding

Date: 15th July 2024
Categories: Barrettine, Products

Timber cladding adds a touch of rustic charm and natural beauty to any property. One of the most popular types of cladding, timber is increasingly used on both residential and commercial buildings.

However, like any outdoor surface, the wood used in cladding is constantly exposed to the very worst of the elements, which over time will lead to both aesthetic and structural damage.  

Cladding is also vulnerable to other threats such as fungal growth and wood-boring insects – but with proper cladding maintenance, you can keep these threats at bay.  

As experts in woodcare, at Barrettine we have formulated a powerful two-step system to maintain timber cladding and safeguard its beauty and structural integrity for years to come.  

Understanding the threats: weather, fungi and UV damage

External timber cladding faces some tough opponents. The elements can wreak havoc on wooden cladding, with exposure to wind, rain, frost and fluctuating temperatures weakening the surface of the wood and making it susceptible to further damage.

Additionally, rainwater and moisture soaking into wooden cladding creates the perfect damp environment for mould, mildew and rot to thrive, accelerating the breakdown of the wood and creating unsightly blemishes on the surface. Wood-boring insects, while not as much of an issue in the UK as in other countries, can cause further damage to the surface of the wood.

Finally, an often overlooked threat to exterior wooden cladding is UV damage. Exposure to UV rays from the sun gradually break down the lignin in the wood, leading to greying, fading and cracking.

How can I protect timber cladding from damage?

At Barrettine, we have all the products needed to maintain timber cladding; however, if the timber is already showing signs of damage or fungal growth, you’ll first need to address this before applying any protective treatments.  

Addressing algae growth & mould

If your wooden cladding already has damage caused by the weather or mould growth, it’s important to address these issues before taking any further steps.

The first thing to do is to address any mould or algae growth; our Knockout Mould and Mildew Cleaner is the best option for this. As a fungicidal wash, this product contains biocides to tackle mould growth and also prevent further outbreaks.

Before applying or using any cleaning or surface protection products, always make sure you are wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, overalls and eye/face protection to protect against splashes.

When using Mould & Mildew Cleaner before applying further cladding maintenance products, for best results apply with a brush or roller and leave for up to 24 hours to maximise biocidal effect.

Next, rinse with clean water to remove any residue and allow the surface of the cladding to fully dry.

Reviving weathered timber cladding

After cleaning away any fungal growth, you may need to revive weathered timber cladding to restore its natural colour.

If there are signs of weather damage to your timber (including greying and fading), there is a way to turn back the clock!  

Barrettine’s Wood Reviver has been specifically formulated to restore grey, UV-damaged wood.

Containing biodegradable oxalic acid, a natural ingredient found in plants, Wood Reviver gently removes the weathered grey layer caused by UV rays. This reveals the original warm tones of the wood, leaving it looking fresh and revived. It also tackles water stains, rust marks, and tannin runs.

Using Barrettine Wood Reviver is simple. It’s best to use this product when the temperature is between 5-30°C, and out of direct sunlight. We’d always recommend a testing the product on a small inconspicuous area before applying to ensure you’re happy with the result.

To revitalise your wood cladding, start by applying a generous amount of the product with a brush or roller, following the wood grain in manageable sections. Keep the wood damp throughout this process by wetting with water if necessary.

After letting the reviver work its magic for 15-30 minutes, use a non-metal, stiff brush to gently scrub the surface. Finally, rinse everything thoroughly with clean water. Repeat the process for extra restoration if needed.

Cladding maintenance for the long term

While our Knockout Mould & Mildew Cleaner and Barrettine Wood Reviver will have restored your wood cladding to its former glory, it’s important to apply surface protection products to protect the cladding for the long term.

We’ve developed an effective two-step system for protecting timber cladding. The first step involves applying a high-quality wood preservative to shield the timber from fungal decay and wood-boring insects. This will extend the lifespan of the cladding and prevent costly repairs down the line.

Following this, a UV protection oil is used to combat the greying effects of sunlight and maintain the natural beauty of the wood. This two-step system ensures comprehensive protection for your cladding, keeping it beautiful and functional for many years to come.

Step 1: Protection against fungal decay & insects

The first step to protecting and maintaining your cladding is to use the Universal Primer Preserver , a oil/spirit based primer that provides long-lasting protection against fungal decay and wood-boring insects.

To apply, use a brush or roller to apply 2-3 thin coats with approximately 6-12 hours drying time in between coats. Clean tools with Barrettine White Spirit.

Finally, allow a full 24 hours after applying Universal Preserver Primer before applying a UV protection oil or top coat.

Step 2: Protection against weathering and UV damage

The second step is the Armourflex® Ultimate Cladding UV Protection Oil.

This oil-based formula offers exceptional UV protection, preventing greying and ensuring your cladding retains its natural colour for longer. Designed to dissipate UV rays as heat, it also boasts a fantastic hydrophobic, water-repellent finish, further safeguarding the timber from the elements.

This premium surface protection product provides a microporous finish that is resistant to flaking, peeling, cracking and blistering.

We’d recommend applying 2-3 coats of this product, allowing 4 hours drying time in between each coating.

 Apply the first coat generously with a high-quality brush or roller until the wood is saturated. Use lighter coats for subsequent applications, keeping in mind that more coats increase the gloss level.

How often do I need to reapply a UV protection oil?

The frequency of reapplication will depend heavily on the location of cladding on the exterior of your building. Timber cladding in sunny, exposed areas facing south, will require reapplication more frequently than wood on sheltered, north-facing structures. As a general guideline, exposed south-facing surfaces will likely need a fresh coat every year.

Premium cladding maintenance solutions: contact Barrettine today

Cladding maintenance is an investment that pays off in the long run. By taking the time to care for your timber cladding, you can ensure it continues to be a beautiful and functional asset to your property for years to come.

At Barrettine, we have decades of experience and the knowledge needed to offer the most effective ways to preserve and restore timber to prevent long term damage.

For more information on Barrettine's cladding maintenance solutions, including the Universal Primer Preserver  and Armourflex® Ultimate Cladding UV Protection Oil, please get in touch. We’re always happy to answer any questions you may have, and we can provide you with the best advice for your project.

You can also find a local stockist of Barrettine products by clicking here.